How to Unblock a Shower Drain Without Chemicals
If you’ve ever stepped into a shower only to discover that the water doesn’t drain then you’ll be aware of how frustrating it can be. Not only does it slow down your morning routine, it could also make it more difficult to clean up when you’re done. Although chemical drain cleaners are sometimes effective, they may also damage your pipes and harm the environment. The good news is the fact that you have a lot of natural ways to unblock a shower drain without using harsh chemical solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical drain cleaners can harm pipes and the environment.
- There are many natural methods to clear a shower drain for example, baking soda and vinegar as well as a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum.
- To make use of the baking soda method and vinegar: gather items, clean the drain cover and other obstructions, and pour baking soda and vinegar. Wait for 30 minutes then flush with boiling water.
- Method for hanging wire: straighten out wire hanger, leaving one end in its original shape Make a hook at the end, then insert it inside the drain to fish hair and other debris out.
- If you want to use the dry/wet vacuum method switch the vacuum to "wet" mode then cover the drains of overflow using cloth or tape. attach hose creating an air-tight seal, then turn on the vacuum for 3 minutes.
- Avoid future blockages by using a hair strainer in your shower, running hot water after every usage and avoiding the practice of pouring grease down your drains.
Method 1: Making a cake with baking Soda and Vinegar
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To begin take the following steps:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Boiling water
- Rubber gloves (optional)
- A rag or cloth
Step 2. Prepare the Drain
Remove the shower drain cover if possible and use an e-brush or small toothbrush to get rid of dirt or hair from the edges of the drain. Make sure to wear rubber gloves, if needed.
Step 3: Pour in Baking Soda along with Vinegar
Pour one cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup white vinegar. Then cover with a rag or cloth. Cover the drain immediately with a clean cloth or a rag to ensure that the reaction doesn’t fizz over the top!
Step 4: Wait
It should take about 30 minutes while the mixture performs its magic. You should hear some fizzing and bubbling. This means it’s working!
Step 5: Clean with Boiling Water
Take the cover off with care and flush it out with hot water. This should help clear any debris that remains and get your water flowing smoothly again.
Method 2: Wire Hanger
Sometimes all you require is a reliable wire hanger:
Step 1 1. Straighten It Out
Straighten a wire hanger as straight as you can, but leave the other end of the hanger in its original shape.
Step 2: Make an Hook
Create a small hook on the top of the wire that you have just straightened.
Step 3: Go fishing for Hair and Debris
Hook it into the drain and look to look for hair or debris. Pull out anything that comes up.
Method 3: Dry Vacuum Wet
If you’re able to access a wet/dry vacuum the following method may be the best option for you.
Step 1: Set the Vacuum
The vacuum should be set in "liquids" (or "wet" mode.
2. Cover Drainage
Cover any overflow drains with duct tape or a wet cloth to ensure maximum suction power.
Step 3: Attach Hose to drain
Connect the hose to your drain, creating an air-tight seal.
Step 4: Turn on Vacuum
Switch on the vacuum and let it run for approximately three minutes. This should eliminate any blockages from the shower drain.
| Method | Supplies Needed | Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Baking Soda and Vinegar | Baking soda, white vinegar, boiling water, rubber gloves (optional), cloth or rag | 1. Gather supplies\n2. Prepare the drain\n3. Pour in baking soda and vinegar\n4. Wait for 30 minutes\n5. Flush with boiling water |
| Wire Hanger | Wire hanger | 1. Straighten it out\n2. Create a hook\n3. Fish for hair and debris |
| Wet/Dry Vacuum | Wet/dry vacuum, duct tape or wet cloth | 1. Set the vacuum to "liquids" or "wet" mode\n2. Cover overflow drain \n3. Attach hose to drain \n4. Turn on vacuum |
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell whether my shower drain is blocked?
If your shower is taking longer than usual to empty or if you notice that water is collecting on your feet during your shower, it’s a sign that your drain is partially or fully clogged. A sour smell coming from the shower area could indicate a blocked drain.
What are the best natural methods to unblock the shower drain?
Try pouring boiling water down the drain, followed by the baking soda mixture and then vinegar. It is also possible to use the mixture of salt and baking soda, followed by boiling water. Plunging the drain with a plunger might also help.
Can I make use of chemical drain cleaners to free my shower?
It’s not recommended to utilize chemical drain cleaners due to the fact that they are laden with toxic chemicals that can harm your pipes in the long run. These chemicals can also harm the environment and pose health risks for those who handle them incorrectly.
When should I get in touch with a professional plumber for my blocked shower drain?
If the DIY method doesn’t work in clearing your shower drain, then it’s advisable to contact a professional plumber such as Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers in Sydney for assistance. Other signs that you need professional help include water leaking out of the toilet or other drains, strange noises of pipes gurgling or smells that are foul out of the drains after cleaning them.
How much will it cost to fix a clogged shower drain cleared by a plumber?
The price of repairing an unblocking shower drain could differ based on the severity of the issue and where you reside. On average, it costs between $100-$300 for a plumber to clear the drain of a shower. However, more severe situations that require pipe repair or replacement could cost anywhere from $500 to $1000.
Conclusion
The process of unblocking the shower drain can be a hassle however there are a variety of alternative methods you can try before using harsh chemicals. Whether you choose baking soda and vinegar or a wire hanger or a wet/dry vacuum be sure to stop future blockages installing a hair strainer inside your shower, running hot water after each use, and avoiding spilling grease down your drains. If none of these solutions work, it may be an appropriate time to seek professional assistance. If you’re dealing with stubborn or having trouble with plumbing issues at Sydney , contact Sydney Blocked Drains Plumbers today!
Additional Information
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- The Science of Unblock: Unveil How Blocked Drain Jetting Works
- Understanding CCTV Drain Inspection and the Benefits for Your Home
- 5 Factors That Are Clogging Your Drains and How to Avoid Them
- Avoiding Clogged Drains: Tips for Homeowners
- Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Cost-Effective Solution for Your Plumbing Needs
- What You Need to Know About Blocked Drains and How to Resolve Them
- Tips and Tricks for Fixing a Blocked Drain with Ease
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- The Benefits of CCTV Drain Inspections: How Often Should You Carry Them Out?
